LPN Programs in Minnesota

Thanks to the growing elderly population in Minnesota and elsewhere, there’s been a boom in the demand for licensed nursing professionals, and becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is one of the best ways to get involved.

There are a few basics you need to know if you want to pursue an LPN in Minnesota before you sign up for training though, so read on, and discover how the process works.

Training for LPN’s in Minnesota

In Minnesota, as in other states, you need to find training programs that are approved by the state – that’s the first step in becoming a registered LPN.

However, unlike many other states, there are online training options, as well as the usual certificates, diplomas and associates degrees on offer through colleges and universities.

Whichever training you choose, you will need to complete both the practical and theoretical portions of the training, and you will need to cover the entire syllabus required by the state. However, the variety of training options for LPNs in Minnesota does mean that you have the option of training at your own pace, full or part time.

Registering As An LPN In Minnesota

Once you have completed a one or two year training program, you’re ready for the final step to becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse in Minnesota – taking the national competency exam, and applying for registration. Once you’ve done that, you will be legally allowed to work as an LPN at any state or private facility, anywhere in the state.

Working As An LPN In Minnesota

LPN’s are in high demand at hospitals, nursing homes, clinics and private medical and dental practices throughout Minnesota. There’s also a growing demand for LPN’s to work for home care services in the state.

Wherever you work as a Licensed Practical Nurse, and whether you work with infants, the aged, or anyone else, you will work under the supervision of an RN or a physician.

There’s no shortage of jobs at the moment – in fact, there’s a severe shortage of LPN’s and other nursing professionals in Minnesota, so those with training and experience can choose their positions from a huge pool of options.

LPN Salaries in Minnesota

On average, LPNs in Minnesota will earn about $44,000 per annum. Many employers offer additional benefits, including the potential to undergo further training, and pursue RN’s at a later stage.

All of this makes the LPN profession one of the most attractive for those looking for a healthcare career in Minnesota.

Accredited LPN Schools, Training Classes & Programs in Minnesota

Alexandria Technical College – Program of Practical Nursing

1601 Jefferson Street
Alexandria, MN 56308
320-762-0221

Students attend a total of 71 classes for 49 credits in the practical nursing program which is completed in three semesters. Athletic programs, entertainment, cultural enrichment are just a few of the activities on this campus. The college has a foundation which provides housing to students adjacent to the campus grounds. Students may also take advantage of the community housing list.

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Anoka Technical College Practical Nursing Program

1355 West Highway 10
Anoka, MN 55303
763-576-4700

There are several options to pay your tuition; online, in person or via mail. You are also welcome to apply for financial aid. All students in the practical nursing program, whether it is in-state, out-of-state or international, pay the same tuition. The LPN program here is studied full time and is completed in four semesters.

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Central Lakes College Practical Nursing Program

501 West College Drive
Brainerd, MN 56401
218-855-8000

The option taking the practical nursing program part time is available to students. Full time LPN program is completed in three semesters and part time takes two years. Some practical nursing courses can be completed online. There are sports activities, a theater department, music and art exhibits to keep students active. The college foundation has a scholarship program and students are welcome to apply.

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Dakota County Technical College Practical Nursing Program

1300 145th Street East
Rosemount, MN 55068
651-423-8301

The LPN program here is a 52 credit diploma program and students can apply for scholarships, grants or loans to supplement their study costs. The program is designed to be completed in four semesters if studied full time. Part time students study at their own pace. There are many resources that students can access including a bookstore, health services and much more.

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Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Practical Nursing Program

2101 14th Street
Cloquet, MN 55720
218-879-0888

All students in the licensed practical nursing program must have a current CPR certificate. They must maintain a GPA of 2.8 or grade C or higher in all courses; or they will be dismissed from the program. Students may transfer college credits in the LPN. The school provides two and three bedrooms, and quad dorm facilities.

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Hennepin Technical College Practical Nursing Program

13100 College View Drive
Eden Prairie, MN 55347
952-995-1300

Students are able to take both actual and virtual classes in this practical nursing program. There is a multicultural and international department at this school where student get a better understanding of the diversity of different ethnicities and backgrounds. Some resources include financial aid, bookstore, career services and tutoring.

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Hennepin Technical College Practical Nursing Program

9000 Brooklyn Blvd.
Brooklyn Park, MN 55455
952-995-1300

One of two campuses from this school, the LPN program requires 52 credits to graduate and includes learning environments that simulate the actual work environment to offer the students hands on experience. Federal OSHA recommendations are that students be able to lift 35 pounds, bend, walk, stand, push and pull for extended periods during clinical sessions.

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Itasca Community College Practical Nursing Program

1851 East Highway 169
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-327-4477

This is a three semester diploma LPN program. Students in the program must pass both the nursing assistant and home health aide courses to be admitted into the full program. There is a work study program, several grants, loans and scholarships options for those who wish to apply. Clubs, athletics and fraternities are some of the activities on this campus.

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Lake Superior College Practical Nursing Program

2101 Trinity Road
Duluth, MN 55811
218-733-7600

Students needing a scholarship can apply to the college foundation when enrolling into the practical nursing program. According to this school’s data they have a 100% job assistance rate for LPN graduates. There is a store on campus that provides books, apparel, software, electronics and supplies. The library has the latest in inline reference sites, DVDs, films and books.

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Mesabi Range Community and Technical College Practical Nursing Program

1100 Industrial Park Drive
P.O. Box 648
Eveleth, MN 55734
218-741-3095

The school has a vibrant athletics program that involves both male and female students. Students in the LPN program can purchase and their text books and supplies from the bookstore on campus. While completing your three semester practical nursing program you may apply for housing. Take advantage of the federal grants, loans and scholarships to help pay for college.

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Minneapolis Community and Technical College Practical Nursing Program

1501 Hennepin Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55403
612-659-6000

This school’s career services will prepare you for gainful employment and assist with your job search. They also offer support services, computer labs, library and judicial services to its students. There are several requirements to get into the practical nursing program. Students must have at least a GED with a GPA of 2.0 or higher.

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Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical Practical Nursing Program, Winona Campus

1250 Homer Road
Winona, MN 55987
507-453-2200

The college has learning resource center and offers academic advising and tutoring. A financial aid advisor will assist you to make the right choice for paying for your LPN program. The practical nursing program here and requires all students entering the program to be a CNA. You can opt to attend classes part time and work as a certified nursing assistant while you study.

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Minnesota State Community and Technical College Practical Nursing Program, Detroit Lakes

900 Highway 34 East
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501
218-846-3700

Students in the licensed practical nursing program will have to complete 47 credits in order to receive their diploma. The program is three semesters in length. There are a few foundations that assist students in gaining the financial support they need to pursue their education. While studying, it is of great importance to take advantage of the career and employment services.

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Minnesota West Community and Technical College Pipestone Campus Practical Nursing Program

1314 North Hiawatha Ave
Pipestone, MN 56164
507-825-6800

It takes two semesters plus five prerequisite courses to complete the practical nursing diploma program. Student services include a health watch program, drug/alcohol awareness, mental health and many more services that students may find helpful during their time on campus. Some classes are available online and students can participate in any of the athletic programs.

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Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Worthington Campus – Practical Nursing Program

1450 Collegeway
Worthington, MN 56187
507-372-3400

The library and resource center offers over 800,000 catalogued items and over 200 magazines and journals. The resource center plays a very important role by tutoring students and assisting with career choices and job application. There are prerequisite courses to consider when entering the LPN program which will make up the 37 credits required to graduate.

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Northland Community and Technical College East Grand Forks Practical Nursing Program

2022 Central Ave. NE
East Grand Forks, MN 56721
218-773-4556

A 63 credit program, students who are successful are awarded an Associate of Applied Science Degree in practical nursing or for 50 credits they receive a diploma. Stay active by participating in sports, joining clubs and organizations. Housing, dining and a cafeteria gives students the comfort the need to know that their nutritional and boarding needs are met.

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Northland Community and Technical College Practical Nursing Program

1101 Highway One East
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
218-681-0701

Two LPN program options are available here; the A.A.D or the Diploma in practical nursing. Both programs lead to licensure in the field but Associate of Applied Science Degree students complete more courses and are closer to becoming registered nurses. The advantage with the A.A.D nursing program is that some of the courses can be completed via distance learning.

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Northland Community and Technical College Practical Nursing Program – Roseau Campus

121 Center St E
Roseau, MN 56751
800-959-6282

One of three schools in the cluster that offers the LPN program, they have a very active student population; participating in inter-collegiate sports, a student run senate, clubs and fraternities. The library is state-of-the-art with e-resources, print and media support. Students in the practical nursing program can access veteran benefits and other financial aid if they qualify.

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Northwest Technical College-Bemidji Practical Nursing Program

905 Grant Avenue SE
Bemidji, MN 56601
218-333-6600

There are two practical nursing programs at this institution; there is the 63 credit Associate of Applied Science Degree and the 53 credit Diploma program. To apply into any one of the LPN programs students must complete the prerequisite courses. Students may apply for grants, loans, scholarships or veterans benefits to assist with paying for college.

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Pine Technical College Practical Nursing Program

900 4th Street SE
Pine City, MN 55063
320-629-6764

The student senate is the student governing body responsible for budgets and the student fees. All students are welcome to be a part of this body. Resources are many and available to all students who wish to access these services. Those applying into the licensed practical nursing program must possess a current CPR certificate and complete several preliminary courses.

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Rainy River Community College Practical Nursing Program

1501 Highway 71
International Falls, MN 56649
218-285-7722

This school has an athletics program, e-services and an emergency info service called Star Alert. Emergency alerts include disease and pandemic plans, weather emergencies and a crisis plan. Complete your practical nursing program with just 44 credits by transferring credits from previous courses or go the normal route and complete with 53 credits.

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Rasmussen University Practical Nursing Program

130 St. Andrews Drive
Mankato MN 56001
507-625-6556

This college has 22 colleges spread across five states and offers the LPN program at many of the campuses. Students can gain more hands-on training and knowledge by completing the Associate’s Degree in Practical Nursing or choosing the diploma program. Either way, candidates will be well-equipped to take the NCLEX-PN state exams and start working as practical nurses.

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Rasmussen University Practical Nursing Program – Brooklyn Park Campus

763-493-4500

The Associate’s Degree in practical nursing is a two-year LPN program. The college blog has very good information on nursing and other programs and services at the school that might be of vital importance to students. Whether you are leaving high school or are an adult you are welcome to apply to the program, however, you must pass a physical to be admitted.

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Rasmussen University Practical Nursing Program – Eagan Campus

3500 Federal Drive
Eagan, MN 55112
651-687-9000

Gain an Associate Degree in Practical Nursing at this college. If you have completed and diploma or certificate in practical nursing, or are a certified nursing assistant, you may transfer into the LPN program. It is also very easy for you to upgrade your degree to pursue a registered nurse transferring into the BSN program.

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Rasmussen University Practical Nursing Program – Moorhead Campus

1250 29th Avenue S
Moorhead, MN 56560
218-304-6200

To pay for your LPN program you can get federal grants, federal loans and state funding. There are quite a few scholarship opportunities available as listed by the school. Access your social networks on campus and keep in touch with friends and family. Don’t forget to interact with fellow students and utilize the campus resources.

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Rasmussen University Practical Nursing Program – St. Cloud Campus

320-251-5600

Military students get an automatic discount of ten percent when they enroll. Career assistance services assist the student in acquiring a job after graduation and give you the tools for success throughout your LPN career. High school students enrolling in the practical nursing program get to talk to counselors and advisors to ease their transition into the college system.

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Ridgewater College Practical Nursing Program

2101 15th Avenue NW
Willmar, MN 56201
320-222-5200

A list of recommended housing facilities is available for students seeking boarding. Students can participate in athletics, theater, music, arts and join clubs all on campus. The LPN program at this school awards you a diploma upon completion. Books and supplies are available at the bookstore and the library is available for quiet study and for finding relevant information.

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Riverland Community College Practical Nursing Program

1900 Eighth Avenue NW
Austin, MN 55912
507-433-0600

Complete your licensed practical program in one year with 38 credits. Some courses can be completed online. If you do not qualify for financial aid there are payment plans available to you. You must be CPR certified to enter into the LPN program. After graduation, you have the option of continuing on to pursue an RN.

Riverland Community College Practical Nursing Program – Albert Lea Campus

2200 Riverland Dr
Albert Lea, MN 56007
507-379-3300

The foundation founded by the college receives donations towards awarding scholarships to students who find it difficult to pay for college. If you want to work and study you can join the work-study program or apply to the student job assistance services. There are grants, scholarships and loans available to those who qualify.

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Owatonna College and University Center

965 Alexander Dr
Owatonna, MN 55060
507-455-5880

If you have a child, the child care center will care for him/her while you study, at a minimal cost to you. The center accepts children as little as six week old and up five years. Study LPN program knowing that this campus has many resources which you can access anytime. Such resources include the library, counseling and advising, financial aid and veteran services.

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Rochester Community and Technical College Practical Nursing Program

851 30th Avenue SE
Rochester, MN 55904
507-285-7143

Events on campus happen on a regular basis so you can partake or participate in the athletic, music, theater or nay other event you like. There is also a health and fitness center and clubs. General education requirements for the LPN program can be completed in any semester and students can complete the program in one year.

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St. Cloud Technical College Practical Nursing Program

1540 Northway Drive
St. Cloud, MN 56303
320-308-5000

Financial aid is available to students who qualify. Some general education courses may be completed online. The LPN program has four options; full time and part time AAS Degree or full time or part time diploma program. All prerequisite course completed must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher in order to enter the program.

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St. Paul College Practical Nursing Program

235 Marshall Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55102
651-846-1600

There is a child care center, career and assistance center along with disability services. Financial aid options include veteran benefits, scholarships, loans and grants. This school offers both an AAS Degree and a diploma in practical nursing. The licensed practical nursing program diploma is 55 credits and the AAS degree is 63 credits.

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South Central College Practical Nursing Program – Mankato Campus

1920 Lee Boulevard
North Mankato, MN 56003
507-389-7200

The associate’s degree program here allows students to graduate and earn their license to operate as licensed practical nurses after completing one year of the program. This licensed practical nursing program, also known as pre-nursing, allows students to continue to pursue registered nurses. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

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South Central College Practical Nursing Program – Faribault Campus

1225 Third Street SW
Faribault, MN 55021
507-332-5800

At the library you have access to databases, government sites, magazines, journals and references. The LPN program can be completed as a diploma or associate degree. Checkout the bookstore for your text books and supplies. You don’t have to go into the actual store to purchase, you can get your books from the online bookstore.

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